Former Mad Town member H.O explains how unpopular idols end up with huge debt

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Former Mad Town member H.O (Song Jae Ho) revealed the brutal truth of the idol industry.

In a recent Afreeca TV broadcast, H.O explained how hard it is to make it as an idol star. He said, "The competition is insane but you gain a debt when you debut." H.O continued, "You need at least 500 million KRW (469,483 USD) for MV, music, recording, outfits, filming, meals, etc. That means one group endures a debut of 500 million KRW, and if there are 7 members, each member's debut equals 70 million KRW (65,728 USD). But the question is, 'Is it possible for them to make 500 million KRW in one promotion period?'"

H.O revealed that idols don't make much from music shows. In fact, music shows are purely for exposure, not for profit. Where the earning comes is from events, concerts, overseas tours, and album sales. However, making it up to 500 million KRW total for unpopular groups with that is extremely difficult.

He said, "We can't sell that many albums. If you're an unpopular idol, you just sit with a huge debt."

H.O also talked about the earning division with the agency. He said, "If it's a 50:50 contract then the agency takes 50% while we take the other 50%. If you split that 50% with all the members then do we make money? Nope. We have to pay our debt."